The 2003 Gran Reserva is a youthful cherry red in color. The nose delivers a confiture of lightly roasted black fruits, a hint of chocolate, as well as notes of sage and rosemary. Dense and structured in a slightly rustic style (from the torrid vintage conditions), it will evolve for another 4-6 years and drink well through 2028. Marques de Riscal is one of Rioja’s legendary estates. Here tradition and quality go hand in hand despite the Bodega’s enormous production and a few minor tweaks to update the style. It was my privilege in May 2010 to participate in a vertical tasting of Marques de Riscal Gran Reservas dating back to 1870 at the Bodega. The corks from the ancient vintages were removed with Port tongs to prevent any contamination of the wine. Shaw-Smith Importers, FL